When the subject is an infinitive phrase, the sentence often begins with it. Instead of saying To find fault with
others is easy, we say, It is easy to find fault with others. More examples are given below.
However, when we want to emphasize the infinitive phrase, it may be put at the beginning especially if it is short.
To err is human.
To withdraw now will be sheer folly.
When the subject is a phrase that includes a gerund, it is used as a provisional subject to begin the sentence.
Instead of saying Your trying to deceive us is no good, we may say It is no good your trying to deceive us.
When the subject is a clause, the sentence usually begins with it. Instead of saying That she was once a famous
artist is true, we may say, It is true that she was once a famous artist.
It does not matter whether he comes or not. (= Whether he comes or not does not matter.)
It is doubtful whether he can pay the dues. (= Whether he can pay the dues is doubtful.)
It cannot be denied that the doctors did their best to save his life. (= That the doctors did their best to save
his life cannot be denied.)
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